'Parade's End' is the new five-part drama featuring Sherlock star Benedict Cumberbatch and judging by the reception it's premiere episode received last night (Feb 26), then it looks as though the British star may have another hit show on his hands.

The show, which is set roughly in the same period as the ridiculously successful Downton Abbey, sees Cumberbatch at the cusp of a love triangle between his aristocratic self, socialite wife and a young suffragette. Just like Downton, the formula of adding some drama to a turn of the century bourgeoise society has proved successful once more with critics following the premier of the HBO/BBC joint venture last night.

The Wall Street Journal had particularly kind words to say about the new series, praising "the rich complexity of (Ford Madox) Ford's characters," holding particular praise for Cumberbatch. The New York Daily News also singled out Cumberbatch's "superb" performance, commenting too on the noteworthy performances of his female support: Rebecca Hall and Adelaide Clemens. The Huffington Post commented negatively on what reviewer Maureen Ryan viewed as plot holes in the show, but was heavy in her praise of the two stars, Cumberbatch and his on-screen wife Hall nonetheless.

So, if you happen to be looking for a performance driven late period piece of drama then 'Parade's End' should do the job nicely and will hopefully full the void until Downton Abbey returns later this year at least.

Benedict Cumberbatch is all smiles for the camera at this years BAFTAs

Benedict Cumberbatch was all smiles for the camera at this years BAFTAs